What is a health care directive and how does it work?

A health care directive is a legal document that allows a person to make decisions in advance about the type of medical treatment they would like to receive if they become too ill or unable to speak for themselves. In Virginia, a health care directive, sometimes referred to as an advance directive, is the only way to have your wishes followed if you become seriously ill or unable to express your wishes yourself. A health care directive includes instructions about medical care. It can include a living will, which states the type of treatment you would or would not like to receive if you become terminally ill or are in a permanently unconscious state. It can also include a power of attorney for health care, which appoints a person you trust (also called a proxy) to make medical decisions for you if you cannot make them for yourself. Health care directives are important for adults of any age, but can be especially important for people over the age of 18 who are concerned about protecting their wishes in the event of a medical emergency. It is important to ensure the document is properly drafted, signed, and witnessed in accordance with Virginia state law. A health care directive can be created without the help of a lawyer, but if you are unsure of how to create it, seeking the help of an attorney is advised.

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